Parkinson's Disease: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment





 

 Parkinson's Disease: What You Need to Know

Parkinson's disease, also known as shaking palsy, is a long-term condition that affects the brain and the way the body moves. It happens when nerve cells that make dopamine, a chemical that helps control movement, slowly stop working.

What causes it?

In most cases the exact cause is unknown, and several factors may work together:

Genetics: In a small number of people, genes inherited from birth raise the risk, but symptoms usually appear only later in life.

Toxic exposure: Long-term contact with pesticides and industrial solvents may increase the risk.

Age: The biggest risk factor. Most people are diagnosed after 60.

Having one of these factors does not mean a person will develop Parkinson's.

Common signs

Shaking (tremor), often in one hand when resting

Slow movement and stiff muscles

Balance problems and shuffling steps

Smaller handwriting and a softer voice

Other signs can appear years earlier, such as constipation, poor sleep, loss of smell, and low mood.

How is it diagnosed?

There is no single test. A neurologist usually diagnoses it from your symptoms and a physical exam.

Treatment and daily life

There is no cure yet, but treatment can help control symptoms. Medicines such as levodopa raise dopamine levels. Regular exercise, physical therapy, and speech therapy also help. In some cases, doctors suggest a surgery called deep brain stimulation.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor if you notice tremor, stiffness, or slowness that does not go away.

 Educational only. Talk to your doctor about your health


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